STROKE AWARENESS -- If you think you or someone near you is having a stroke, which is characterized by weakness or numbness on one side of the body, a sudden slurring or loss of speech, and dimness or loss of vision in one eye, call an ambulance immediately. Strokes result from blocked blood flow to part of the brain, and often the symptoms are either ignored or seeking medical help is delayed. A new clot-busting drug called TPA can restore the flow and an experimental drug, citicoline, appears to revive dying brain cells, but only if administered promptly. Please don't ignore the above symptoms, call a medical professional immediately.

ASPIRIN NEWS -- It has been known for over 10 years that aspirin can reduce heart attack risk in men by 44 percent. In recent studies, it has been found that even small doses (1-6 tablets per week) reduced a woman's risk of heart attack by 30 percent. Other studies have shown a decreased risk of colon cancer as well as cancer of the esophagus. Despite aspirin's proven benefits, its effects on the stomach lining can be dangerous. Consult a doctor before deciding to take aspirin regularly.

HAVE THE FISH -- One study found people who ate 5.5 gm of omega-3 fatty acids each month reduced their risk of cardiac arrest by 50%.

BLOOD DONOR -- Men who donate blood three times a year reduce their risk of heart attack by more than 50% and their risk of cancer by 40%. Giving blood removes excess iron from a man's body, resulting in these benefits.